Proton wants to build better quality cars by deploying 5G solutions with Maxis

Proton has picked Maxis as its 5G partner to deploy several smart use cases to enhance its security, safety and operational efficiencies at its Tanjung Malim plant. They have started network installations in October and the use cases will rely on a purpose-built 5G network.

According to the press statement, the partnership is part of Proton’s growth strategy in developing Proton City as a model smart city through state-of-the-art tools and systems, as well as Maxis’ commitment to delivering the best 5G innovation and solutions for enterprises. Maxis is tasked to manage the end-to-end services for several IoT solutions at the car manufacturing facility.

The 5G use cases include Smart Security systems to track and ensure the security of vehicles that roll off the factory line. There’s also an Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality remote support and maintenance system that enables Proton engineers to communicate with their international partners in real-time to troubleshoot technical issues and to ensure production quality.

Proton CEO Dr Li Chunrong said “As the nation’s premier automotive brand, PROTON continues to look into emerging technologies that fit our tagline of Inspiring Connections to advance our expertise and deliver value to our customers. Implementing 5G tech at our main plant is an important step in our growth strategy. Through this strategic partnership with Maxis, we look forward to unlocking opportunities that can translate into enhanced security, a safer environment, improved efficiencies, and ultimately, build better quality cars.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Maxis CEO Gokhan Ogut said. “Maxis is proud to be selected as a technology partner to provide this important 5G use case for the nation’s pride of the automotive industry. This partnership with PROTON for proof of concept is testament to our key role that we have been playing in fostering a digital ecosystem for industries through innovation. As Malaysia’s leading converged solutions provider, Maxis is committed to offering the best 5G innovation through our expertise and resources, to enable the nation to Always Be Ahead in this changing world.”

The introduction of 5G technology is said to have the potential to revolutionise the automotive industry and to transform the transportation sector. 5G’s promise of delivering high-speed and low latency is expected to fulfill Proton’s vision of building its Smart Manufacturing Campus with better mobility, reliability, seamless connectivity for on-campus public and private communications, security surveillance, smart lighting and smart buildings. The national carmaker also said 5G will enable them to extend its research and development in Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) technology which would allow them to design and build future-proof autonomous vehicles.

The Tanjung Malim plant is Proton’s main manufacturing facility that produces high-end models such as the Proton X70 and X50. Developed with a total investment of RM3.5 billion, over 4.5 million vehicles have been produced at the plant. Equipped with robots for automation, the plant can produce 60 units per hour or 200,000 units per year.